Barcelona forward Lionel Messi set a La Liga scoring record of 253 goals when he claimed a hat-trick in last night's 5-1 home defeat of Sevilla.

Messi netted a free-kick in the 21st minute to equal the previous record of 251 set by former Athletic Bilbao striker Telmo Zarra in 1955 in the Spaniard's 15th and final season with the Basque club.

The Argentine struck again from close range in the 72nd minute and scored a third six minutes later with a powerful low drive from the edge of the penalty area. Zarra scored his 251 goals in 277 appearances while Messi has needed 289 games to reach 253.

"We are all very happy and of course also for Leo," said Barca captain Xavi. "He has achieved an amazing and historic record for Barcelona."